Open House New York 2024

Open House New York (OHNY) is an annual event that opens the doors to some of New York City's most remarkable and historically significant sites. This festival offers a unique opportunity for both residents and visitors to explore the architectural, cultural, and historical gems of the city.

Activities and Experiences

According to the organizers, OHNY Weekend showcases a diverse array of spaces ranging from boardrooms and clubs to firehouses and factories. Visitors can also explore lighthouses, mansions, monuments, and observation points. The event is designed to highlight the importance of architecture and urban planning in New York City. The festival features over 300 sites, offering guided tours, talks, performances, and special events. Past highlights have included the Museum of Chinese in America, the Islamic Cultural Center, Gowanus Canal Sponge Park, Four Freedoms Park on Roosevelt Island, and Staten Island's Conference House. Additionally, neighborhood tours, such as those in Lower Manhattan, provide deeper insights into the city's vibrant communities.

OHNY Year-Round Programs

In addition to the annual OHNY Weekend, Open House New York offers a variety of year-round programs designed to engage and educate the public about urban life and architecture. These include Sunset Boat Tours, which provide a unique perspective of the city's waterfront, and OHNY Stacks, a series of book talks hosted by OHNY Board Member Saundra Thomas that delve into the lesser-known aspects of urban environments. Conversations on the City, Scavenger Hunts, and Public Policy Talks are also part of the lineup, offering insights into urban planning, hidden city details, and policy issues.

Ticket Information and Parking

OHNY Weekend is entirely free to the public, promoting broad access to the city's treasures. For ticketed locations, a lottery system is used to allocate slots, ensuring fair participation. Parking information varies by site, and attendees are encouraged to use public transportation where possible to minimize congestion and environmental impact.

Locations and Infrastructure

The festival spans all five boroughs of New York City, making it accessible from various locations. Major transportation hubs and infrastructure support easy access to the event sites. Visitors can expect to find detailed information on how to reach each site, whether by subway, bus, bike, or on foot. For those looking to combine their visit with other attractions, New York offers a plethora of nearby activities and landmarks, from Central Park to the Brooklyn Bridge, providing a comprehensive urban exploration experience.

History of the Festival

Founded in 2003, Open House New York was established to promote the appreciation of New York City's architecture and urban planning. The festival was conceived in the aftermath of 9/11, when increased security measures had limited public access to many areas. OHNY aimed to restore openness as a fundamental civic value. Over the years, the festival has expanded its mission to include promoting equity, addressing the climate crisis, and enhancing public understanding of the city's infrastructure. The event has grown significantly, with the 21st annual OHNY Weekend in 2023 welcoming over 25,000 visitors to 330+ sites across 128 neighborhoods.